Vietnam in Brief A Quick Guide to Hoi An

A Quick Guide to Hoi An

Hoi An is a tiny lantern lit Ancient Town with World Heritage Status. Its winding streets are littered with hundreds of tailor shops, cool cafes, stunning street food eateries and chilled out bars. The ochre yellow buildings date back hundreds of years when the dutch and Japanese used Hoi An as one of their key trading posts. It’s the perfect place for relaxtion. You can while away your days cycling through lush green paddy fields, chilling out on An Bang Beach, stuffing your face with local delicacies or indulging in a new tailor made wardrobe.

What to do and see in Hoi An

Get a whole new wardrobe

Hoi An has hundreds of tailor shops to suit every budget. You can get a whole new wardrobe tailor made to your tastes in just a couple of days.

Take in the nature

Hoi An is surrounded by lush green paddy fields and the infamous An Bang beach is a 20 minute bicycle ride away. Most hotels offer free cycle hire so you can explore on your own or you can add a Hoi An Bicycle Tour to your holiday.

Pamper yourself

Hoi An’s 4-5 star hotels are home to some of Vietnam’s finest day spas. If there isn’t one in your hotel you can always wander down the high street and get a pampered and preened at a bargain price.

Discover the history of the Cham People

Hoi An and Da Nang were once home to an ancient race of Hindus known as the Cham. They’re rich and vivid empire lasted until the 18th century when it collapsed into obscurity. You can see ancient champa ruins at My Son and visit the Cham museum in Da Nang.

How’s the food?

Honestly? It’s our favourite food in Vietnam. Just as delicate as the food in the North Hoi An food contains more herbs and spice and uses plenty of delicious chilli jam. Make sure you try the infamous Hoi An Banh Mi, The white rose dumplings, Gorgeous Banh Xeo and filling Cao Lau.

Quick Tips

Make sure you get out of the town at least once. The town is small but packed with things to do. It’s easy not to leave. But part of the joy of being here is the gorgeous countryside. If you’re mainly travelling to other cities this might be the best chance you get to experience Vietnam’s natural beauty.

Is Hoi An for you?

If you’re a serious foodie, beach bum, shopaholic or temple hopper you are going to fall in love with Hoi An. If you are a big city break or party person you’ll still love it but you might only want a few days here.

The best time to go to Hoi An

Almost any time of the year is good but you might want to give the rainy season a miss. Between September and November Hoi An has heavy rains and the odd severe storm. February to May is gorgeous with dry air and an average temperature of 29c. May to September is a little warmer and more humid with an average temperature between 30-35c.

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